On this day, September 9, 1974, in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, a boy was born who would one day engraved his name forever in India’s history. That boy was Captain Vikram Batra — the brave soldier who became the face of courage during the Kargil War of 1999.
From his childhood, Vikram stood apart. He was lively, determined and full of energy, whether in school at Kendriya Vidyalaya, Palampur, or later at DAV College, Chandigarh. Fondly called “Luv” by his mother, he was a loving son, a protective brother, and a spirited friend. His passion for sports and his zest for life reflected the fire within him.
After graduation, he chose the call of duty over all else. He joined the Indian Military Academy at Dehradun and was commissioned into the 13th Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles in December 1997. It was here that his real journey began — one that would lead him to the icy peaks of Kargil.
During the Kargil War, when Pakistan’s intruders had occupied treacherous mountain posts, Captain Vikram Batra’s leadership and grit became legendary. On June 20, 1999, he led his men in the daring capture of Point 5140. With bullets raining down, his fearless cry “Yeh Dil Maange More!” became the battle call for his troops and later, for an entire nation.
His father still remembers a phone call on June 21, 1999. The line cracked and he only caught the word “captured”. His heart froze. Then Vikram repeated slowly, “Papa, we have captured Point 5140.” Relief washed over the family. But more trials were waiting.
Just weeks later, on July 7, 1999, he displayed unmatched bravery at Point 4875. Leading from the front, he rescued a fellow officer under heavy fire but was martyred in the process. That act of sacrifice turned him into an immortal hero. The peak was renamed “Batra Top” in his honour.
For his supreme bravery, Captain Vikram Batra was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest gallantry award on August 15, 1999. His father received it from the President of India on January 26, 2000. At his funeral in Palampur, thousands gathered — leaders and common people alike — bound together by grief and pride.
Tributes poured in from across the country and the world. The Guardian, a British newspaper, wrote: “In the annals of Indian military history, certain names shine brightly. Among these luminaries stands Captain Vikram Batra, a valiant soldier whose courage, leadership and selflessness continue to inspire generations.”
His story has been told in classrooms, in books, and on the silver screen, inspiring countless young Indians to dream beyond themselves.
Yet, beyond the medals and titles, his legacy is his spirit — a spirit of service, courage, and selflessness. As his father once said, “Vikram had found his purpose in life, a righteous path leading him to the highest form of service.”
Today, on his 51st birth anniversary, we bow our heads in respect to Sher Shah — the valiant son of India. Every flutter of the tricolour on mountain peaks carries his roar. Captain Vikram Batra may no longer walk among us, but his spirit lives on — fearless, eternal, and forever inspiring.
Also Read: India remembers Capt Vikram Batra on Martyrdom Day
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